Cycling is an excellent way to stay active and commute sustainably, but accidents can happen. Michael Green, a keen cyclist and Express solicitor, sets out the steps you should take to prevent accidents, explains what to do if you are involved in a crash and answers common questions frequently asked by cyclists when making a claim.
5 Tips to Help Cyclists Stay Safe
Preventing an accident is always better than dealing with the aftermath. Here are five essential tips to stay safe on the roads:
- Wear a helmet & protective gear – While not legally required in the UK, helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries.
- Follow road rules – Obey traffic signals, ride in designated lanes and signal your intentions to other road users. Check out the Highway Code for Cyclists.
- Stay visible – Wear reflective clothing and ensure your bike has lights, especially in low visibility conditions. You are legally required to have a white front light, and red rear light on your bike when riding after dark.
- Be aware of blind spots – Large vehicles have significant blind spots, so avoid riding too close to them.
- Regularly maintain your bike – Check brakes, tyres and lights to ensure your bike is roadworthy.
Did you know? According to gov.uk, potholes are responsible for over 20% of cycling accidents. There are an estimated one million potholes in the UK, you can’t report them all, but if you spot one outside your home, be sure to report it to your local authority!
5 Steps You Should Take After a Cycling Accident
If you are involved in a cycling accident, its important to remain calm and as you would in a car accident – look to gather key details and evidence.
- Seek medical attention – The most important step is to seek help, even if your injuries seem minor at first, as they can become more serious over time.
- Gather evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bike. Take your bike to a repair shop for assessment and a repair quote, even if the damage seems minor, as there may be underlying issues with the brakes or drivetrain.
- Obtain witness details – Get the contact details (and reg plate) of any third parties and any other witnesses to the accident.
- Report the accident – Inform the police, and if you have insurance let them know.
- Speak to a solicitor – Speak to a specialist law firm that deals with cycling accident claims. At Express Solicitors, we offer free legal advice and can inform you of your legal rights.
As Experts in Cycling Accident Claims We Are Frequently Asked…
What Cycling Injuries Can I Claim For?
You can claim for physical injuries such as broken bones, head and spinal injuries, soft tissue damage, and psychological trauma like PTSD. If the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.
Can I Claim if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
Yes, you can still make a claim even if you weren’t wearing a helmet. However, the compensation amount may be reduced if it is determined that wearing one could have mitigated your injuries. This is known as contributory negligence.
Can I Claim for a Hit-and-Run Cycling Accident?
Yes, you can claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) if the driver was uninsured or fled the scene. Speak to a qualified solicitor who can advise you on your legal rights and the process.
Who Can I Make a Claim Against if I have Had a Cycling Accident?
Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to claim against:
- A negligent driver – If a motorist caused your accident.
- Local authorities – If poor road conditions (eg potholes) contributed to the crash.
- A cyclist or pedestrian – If another road user’s negligence led to the accident.
- Employers – If the accident occurred while cycling for work (eg delivery riders).
How Long Do I Have to Make a Cycling Accident Compensation Claim?
In the UK, the general time limit for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident. Exceptions may apply, such as claims for children or individuals without mental capacity.
How Do I Make a Cycling Accident Claim?
To start a claim consult a solicitor, a specialist in cycling injury claims can assess your case.
Why Should I Choose Express Solicitors for My Cycling Accident Claim?
At Express Solicitors, we have a dedicated team specialising in cycling accident claims. We offer:
- No Win, No Fee representation
- Expert legal advice from experienced personal injury solicitors
- A proven track record of securing compensation for cyclists
Cyclists we have recently helped…
- We helped a triathlete who was hit by a car while training. He initially approached another solicitor who believed there were no prospects. Express Solicitors and Amy Cassell took on the case late and managed to secure the client over £100,000. The client said on conclusion of the claim they “they finally felt listened to”.
- We also helped a cyclist, who was involved in a serious accident with a car and suffered a collapsed lung. Daniel Jamieson secured the client £35,000.
- Our client was knocked off his bike, when a parked car door suddenly opened as he rode past causing him to crash. Represented by Collette McCann, he was awarded £25,000.
Contact us
If you’ve been injured in a cycling accident, contact us today for a free consultation and see how we can help you get the compensation you deserve.